It's that time of year again when people often reflect on the last 365 days, then come up with a list of infamous New Year's resolutions.

Civilizations around the world have been celebrating the start of each new year for at least four millennia. Today, most New Year's festivities begin on Dec. 31 (New Year's Eve), the last day of the Gregorian calendar (also called the Western calendar) and continue into the early hours of Jan. 1 (New Year's Day). Common traditions include attending parties, eating special New Year's foods, watching fireworks displays and making resolutions for the new year.

Some Mexico residents shared with us, the things they have chosen to resolve this calendar year.

Audrain County Recorder of Deeds Janis Deimeke has resolved to "not procrastinate as much." Losing weight, she joked, was "too hard to strive for." Diemeke is also a soon-to-be grandmother this year, and plans to spend as much time as possible with the newest arrival in her family.

Emergency Management Director Steve Shaw strives to spread more awareness to the community and area first responders about emergency preparedness. Prior planning, Shaw said, is always the best key.

Audrain County Collector Cathy Zinkel made two resolutions. Professionally she hopes to "continue serving Audrain County efficiently and professionally." Her personal resolution is to "laugh every day and enjoy the little pleasures of life."

Mexico resident Jeanne Reams hopes "to be with her family more this year and make more money."

Shoe Sensation employees Ramona Leonard and Diane Schutte, hope to "sell more shoes this year." Neither of the ladies took time to make their own personal resolutions, but both chuckled about the days when they used to make resolutions.

Glenda Barnes and Randy Gray, a Mexico couple, plan to work toward "better health and peace."

Marsha Bock of Mexico also hopes for good health. "I gave up smoking for the new year, mainly for health reasons and so I can be around next year," she said.

According to website accounts, the top 10 list of resolutions are as follows:

• Spend more time with family and friends.

• Quit smoking

• Fit in fitness

• Tame the bulge

• Enjoy life more

• Quit drinking

• Learn something new

• Get out of debt

• Help others

• Get organized

If you plan on making resolutions, experts advise you to keep your goals realistic, outline your plan and track your progress. Don't beat yourself up if you don't stick to your resolutions perfectly, but try to be consistent.